U.S. companies face an estimated $14 billion annual bill after President Donald Trump imposed a $100,000 application fee on new H-1B visas, according to a report in the Financial Times.
India is the largest receipt of H-1B visas.
The White House said the move, effective with the February lottery, is meant to push firms toward hiring Americans, though it will not affect current visa holders. Silicon Valley and other industries that rely on foreign engineers, accountants, and healthcare specialists are bracing for higher costs.
Garry Tan of Y Combinator called the policy a “massive gift” to Canada and other tech hubs.
Lawyers argue the fee exceeds presidential authority, predicting court challenges.
Trump also signaled broader reforms, including higher salary benchmarks and ending the random lottery system.